Susan's Place Transgender Resources

When I was 15, my sister worked at the Minnesota Renaissance Faire and we went to visit her. Seeing all the women moving about in their period accurate costumes sparked a dream in me to one day attend a Renaissance Faire in a similar costume.  Well this past weekend, at the invitation of a friend, I finally realized that dream!  Of course the experience was amazing, I was properly gendered throughout and if anyone did clock me, they didn't let on and I didn't notice. Even got a few seconds to flirt with the super cute knight after the jousting tournament.  All in all a great day, definitely better than I even expected.  I did have one revelation in particular though that I found quite freeing and affirming.

Like any other county or state fair, these Ren Faires usually have different games and some of them are feats of strength type games (High Striker, Jacob's Ladder, etc.). This faire was no different. In the past, walking past these games in male skin, I felt an odd pressure to take part in these games.  An internalized need to prove how manly I was, how I fit in as a male, etc. 

However, this time my experience was very different. While my sister and I were in a shop looking at dresses, I noticed the Jacob's Ladder game next door.  As I watched a guy try to climb that swiveling rope ladder, I noticed I wasn't feeling that same pressure. I was there in a dress, no way could I try that game.  But more importantly, I didn't want to and definitely didn't feel a need to. I was a a realization of another part of my former male persona that I'm able to let go of.  It's ok for me to not be burly and strong.  I can be more vulnerable and weaker without shame or fear. The feeling was truly eye opening for me. I even stopped my sister long enough to tell her what I was feeling.  It was so great!

So I know "Pictures or it didn't happen" right?  Well here you go, here's a picture of me in costume at the RenFaire on Saturday:

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4364/36242427273_9a554b0294_c.jpg)

Completely awesome!

I bet you would really love steampunk. I always wanted to dress in Victorian costumes. You look lovely. Most of all you look happy.

Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk

Yeah,  one of my first outings en femme was in one of these fairs. If someone is shy and not ready to come out dressed as a female in public, this place is totally a good one.
You'll fit in whether you dress in historical or just regular dress.

Quote from: AlyssaJ on September 05, 2017, 02:37:14 PM

Seeing all the women moving about in their period accurate costumes sparked a dream in me to one day attend a Renaissance Faire in a similar costume.  Well this past weekend, at the invitation of a friend, I finally realized that dream!

Jealous jealous jealous!!

I've had that same dream forever. Maybe some day...

Steph

You look wonderful Alyssa!! I'm going to the Kansas City RenFest later this month. I wish I already had a dress like that ready, but I'll be shopping for one there. I'll also be hunting down some old friends who've worked there forever (and I hope still do!).
If the Minnesota RenFest is anything like KC's, then a good percentage of the people working there are LGBT+ or LGBT+ friendly, so even if you were clocked I seriously doubt anyone would say anything.

Quote from: DawnOday on September 05, 2017, 03:54:02 PM
I bet you would really love steampunk. I always wanted to dress in Victorian costumes. You look lovely. Most of all you look happy.

Sent from my XT1585 using Tapatalk

Ooh, me me me.  I have been to so many steampunk outings as a mad scientist, but never my true self.  I'm going to design a costume now that I can.  Thanks for bringing that up.

I love that dress, I wish I had one.  Maybe next year.  I love Ren Faires Always loved the dresses, they look so pretty.  Especially when compared to modern dresses.

You look fabulous, Alyssa!  I love the costume, and you look very sweet.

Like Steph, I am so jealous.  I went looking for other costumes.  Th less conservative ones show lots of cleavage.  Am reconsidering my boob size.  ;D
Alyssa, you are just the cutest and look like you have been dressing that way for at least 40 years.

My daughter made one of those dresses. Wonder if I could wear it lol?

Alyssa, you are fetching!

Sent from my Victor 9000 using Tapatalk

Quote from: KathyLauren on September 05, 2017, 08:02:54 PM
You look fabulous, Alyssa!  I love the costume, and you look very sweet.

And the 1600's-era smartwatch perfectly completes the ensemble! [emoji16]

Steph

WOW Alyssa

That is great, I love what you are wearing and I understand how it feels to make those kind of connections. It is great to find some peace with yourself

Those kinds of fairs are not common here but I would love to go to one, as I grew up reading about the knights and Ladies. The great flowing dresses always captivated me.

Alyssa you look great! Your body is on point and also is your hair, makeup and that smile!! :) I can see that you are very happy! Congrats.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Beautiful and rocking it. X

Sent from my MI 5s using Tapatalk

Holy mother of macaroni! I FREAKING LOVE IT!!!!!!!!!!!  And forget Ren Faire, you should go out like that every day.... (So what if people look at you funny hahaha... And least they wouldn't be looking at you trying to figure out your gender.) I do not see how ANYONE could clock you, hun... You shine, look happy, just ABSOLUTELY RADIANT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

But most importantly, I am soooo happy you felt like you didn't have to go and do those things that 'men should do'.  I think that is a HUGE thing to celebrate.  So, when's the party?  ;)

I'm just in sheer delight at how amazing you look, the obvious confidence you exude, and how much fun it looks like you had. So congrats!!!!!!

Quote from: Bari Jo on September 05, 2017, 06:31:17 PM
Ooh, me me me.  I have been to so many steampunk outings as a mad scientist, but never my true self.  I'm going to design a costume now that I can.  Thanks for bringing that up.

You're welcome. Seems like it would be fun.

I had forgotten about this resource until a new catalog for them showed up in the mail today. The Pyramid Collection sells all kinds of apparel: renaissance, steampunk, goth, etc. I don't have the skill to make my own, so if I ever get to do what Alyssa's done, I'll have to buy.

I've got no connection to the company. I don't think I've even actually bought anything from them. No idea about the quality. I think I started getting their catalogs because I bought some stuff from an affiliated company. Not sure about links yet, so pyramidcollection dot com.

Steph

Wow beautiful [emoji312][emoji313][emoji378][emoji179][emoji179][emoji179]

Sent from my Max3_3G using Tapatalk

I agree!

Jeipea - looks like you haven't been sent the information we provide to help navigate Susan's - I'll add it here for you.  Also when you get a chance, would be great if you can introduce yourself to everyone in the Introductions Forum. (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php?board=8.0)

A Cautionary Note:
This is a public forum so please remember when posting that The Internet Never Forgets, and the various web crawlers and archival sites out there may retain information that you post.

We cannot ensure that any information you share on the site will be protected from public view and/or copying or reproduction. This warning is also listed in the Terms of Service listed below.

If you give out personal information on Susan's you are responsible for any consequence.,kn

I also want to share some links with you. They include helpful information and the rules that govern the site.  It is important for your enjoyment of the site to take a moment to go through them

Site Terms of Service & Rules to Live By (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,2.0.html)	Standard Terms & Definitions (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,54369.0.html)	Post Ranks (including when you can upload an avatar) (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,114.0.html.)
Reputation rules (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,18960.0.html)	News posting & quoting guidelines (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,174951.0.html)	Photo, avatars, & signature images policy (https://www.susans.org/forums/index.php/topic,59974.msg383866.html#msg383866)

Quote from: AlyssaJ on September 05, 2017, 02:37:14 PM

So I know "Pictures or it didn't happen" right?  Well here you go, here's a picture of me in costume at the RenFaire on Saturday:

(https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4364/36242427273_9a554b0294_c.jpg)

Good Lord!  Perfectly natural and very feminine. And I have to admit, I'm a bit jealous.

So jealous, love period dresses!

Sent from my SM-G920W8 using Tapatalk

Alyssa, you have the prettiest smile.  I love your feminine poses too.  It's clear this is the real you!

I've never been to a Ren Faire but I've been hearing about them since 1975 in junior high.  I've always avoided going and I think dysphoria had a lot to do with that.  Maybe next spring will be the year.  Time to think about costumes!

Love this picture.  You look wonderful.

You look very nice and that dress is very cool. Sorry to be ignorant but what exactly is a renfair? I mean I know what it is but what's the purpose, like what do you do there?

Wow Alyssa, you look great!

I haven't been to a renasance fair but they always looked cool. I have seen the ones on tv in the where a bunch of guys dress up like knights and battle. Their whole family gets involved. Living in tents and cooking over fire.

OMG I just had a thought. Ever thought about going to a ComicCon /DragonXon / FantasyCon? My wife's cousins and his whole family get into those. They have a room dedicated to their costume making and storage. I used to wish to go dressed up to one of those. They do everything from steampunk to movie and video game characters.

Quote from: josie76 on September 08, 2017, 12:09:16 PM
Wow Alyssa, you look great!

I haven't been to a renasance fair but they always looked cool. I have seen the ones on tv in the where a bunch of guys dress up like knights and battle. Their whole family gets involved. Living in tents and cooking over fire.

OMG I just had a thought. Ever thought about going to a ComicCon /DragonXon / FantasyCon? My wife's cousins and his whole family get into those. They have a room dedicated to their costume making and storage. I used to wish to go dressed up to one of those. They do everything from steampunk to movie and video game characters.

Living in a tent and cooking with fire? I thought it was supposed to be fun. That's SO not fun.

The one in Colorado at Larkspur south of Denver is aimed at families and groups of friends. Just for the day, no camping. People watch spectacles (comedy, fencing, acrobatics, theater) and buy stuff and food in the shops. Plan to spend the day. It will rain in the afternoon lol.

Sent from my Victor 9000 using Tapatalk

Quote from: Julia1996 on September 08, 2017, 11:41:33 AM
You look very nice and that dress is very cool. Sorry to be ignorant but what exactly is a renfair? I mean I know what it is but what's the purpose, like what do you do there?

For the fair goers, it's a sort of entertainment. Many performers in one place, different games there, food and beer and so on. Also, an opportunity to dress up in whatever medieval/renessance/fictional costume if so desired (or simply crossdress). It's worth $20 and a day spent :)

For those who work at those faires, it's an opportunity to make some money and also probably meet friends who also work there, and generally a part of their lifestyle.

Quote from: Julia1996 on September 08, 2017, 12:26:02 PM
Living in a tent and cooking with fire? I thought it was supposed to be fun. That's SO not fun.

Funny how when I was young I thought it was fun a few times. You know camping. Near where I live there is a partially rebuilt French fort in a state park. Several times a year they do something like that. They get people from all over who setup a tent town for the weekend. Many are hobby crafters who make period things. Others just fom to hang out. The public is welcome during the daytime to wander the camp, buy and sell, and explore the fort. They also do some period games. Some for kids and some for the adults. There is a regiment of locals who march into the fort in French uniforms and each day have a musket shooting competition and demonstration. If you want to know how life was in the French territory you can see it all. There's a rebuilt barracks and a museum on site.

It's cool to visit for the day. Fort de Chartres, in Prairie du Rocher, IL about 40 miles from St Louis, MO

Quote from: josie76 on September 08, 2017, 02:06:03 PM
Funny how when I was young I thought it was fun a few times. You know camping. Near where I live there is a partially rebuilt French fort in a state park. Several times a year they do something like that. They get people from all over who setup a tent town for the weekend. Many are hobby crafters who make period things. Others just fom to hang out. The public is welcome during the daytime to wander the camp, buy and sell, and explore the fort. They also do some period games. Some for kids and some for the adults. There is a regiment of locals who march into the fort in French uniforms and each day have a musket shooting competition and demonstration. If you want to know how life was in the French territory you can see it all. There's a rebuilt barracks and a museum on site.

It's cool to visit for the day. Fort de Chartres, in Prairie du Rocher, IL about 40 miles from St Louis, MO

My dad and brother love camping. I have never had any desire to go camping. I told my dad I would go camping if he got an RV that had electricity and water and  he said that wasnt really camping and if I was going to stay in a RV then I might as well stay home. Exactly! Home with A/C, bathrooms and showers.

Quote from: Julia1996 on September 08, 2017, 11:41:33 AM
You look very nice and that dress is very cool. Sorry to be ignorant but what exactly is a renfair? I mean I know what it is but what's the purpose, like what do you do there?

All the workers there are dressed and act the part of renaissance-era (or thereabouts) people. Using the Kansas City one for an example, there's games (some basic things but also things like a Jacob's ladder, archery & axe throwing), shows (a live joust, singers, comedians, magicians, and even a bird show - falcons, usually), street performers, simple rides that are mostly man- or animal-powered (a swinging boat, dragon slaying, elephant & camel rides, etc..), and lots & LOTS of food (turkey legs being the most iconic, but they have a wide variety). They generally don't use electricity (except for the food places & the occasional mystical ATM).
Again, I don't know about others, but the KC one has theme weekends with special events centered around that theme. Scottish Games (always fun to watch!), an Irish festival, a beer fest, wine & romance, and even a witches & wizards one.

Urgh... Every time I think about it I'm soooo excited to go back! I haven't been in 13 years, and I'm really hoping some of my old friends still work there (are they in for a surprise!).

Quote from: Julia1996 on September 08, 2017, 02:15:18 PM
My dad and brother love camping. I have never had any desire to go camping. I told my dad I would go camping if he got an RV that had electricity and water and  he said that wasnt really camping and if I was going to stay in a RV then I might as well stay home. Exactly! Home with A/C, bathrooms and showers.

Julia, that's exactly how I am now  ;D. If I gotta go somewhere I want a home away from home.

Wow! That's a happy smile [emoji1][emoji1][emoji1]


Best wishes stay strong
[emoji254][emoji259]Kenzie[emoji259][emoji254]

Quote from: AlyssaJ on September 05, 2017, 02:37:14 PM
Seeing all the women moving about in their period accurate costumes sparked a dream in me to one day attend a Renaissance Faire in a similar costume.  Well this past weekend, at the invitation of a friend, I finally realized that dream!

Alyssa, you've got my brain perking. Fall and winter are RenFest seasons here in Florida, and you've inspired me! I'm thinking wow, maybe I could do this. Did you have to sign up somehow, volunteer or work there, or just go as a tourist?

Getting excited just thinking about it. I'm going to bring it up at our next Trans Support Network Meetup on Saturday and see if a whole group wants to go. We'll take over the joint.

Stephanie

Quote from: Steph2.0 on September 13, 2017, 11:35:25 AM
Alyssa, you've got my brain perking. Fall and winter are RenFest seasons here in Florida, and you've inspired me! I'm thinking wow, maybe I could do this. Did you have to sign up somehow, volunteer or work there, or just go as a tourist?

Getting excited just thinking about it. I'm going to bring it up at our next Trans Support Network Meetup on Saturday and see if a whole group wants to go. We'll take over the joint.

Stephanie

You should totally go... I think you'd have a ton of fun, especially with a group of friends.  I bet you'd look great in costume too!

I haven't been to a renfaire, but I totally want to go. It'd be amazing fun.

That sounds like a lot of fun! I love period clothing, so pretty... And so are you! You also look very feminine & happy! & I know where you're coming from on the "I'm more man than you" pissing contests... Ugh... I cant wait to look feminine enough to pass so I can leave it all behind!

Sent from my Z799VL using Tapatalk